Reefer Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Always pre-cool to the exact temperature specified in your rate confirmation. Fresh produce is typically 34-36°F, frozen goods are 0°F to -10°F, and pharmaceuticals vary widely. Never load cargo into a trailer that has not reached set-point. If the shipper's requirements differ from the rate confirmation, call your dispatcher or broker before loading.

Immediately notify your dispatcher or broker and document the current cargo temperature. Pull into a shaded area if possible. For frozen loads, keep the doors closed — a well-insulated trailer can hold temperature for several hours. For fresh loads, time is more critical. Most reefer breakdown services can reach you within 2-4 hours. Having a Thermo King or Carrier dealer locator app on your phone is essential.

Most manufacturers recommend service every 1,500-2,000 engine hours, which translates to roughly every 3-4 months for a full-time reefer operation. Key maintenance items include oil and filter changes, belt inspection, refrigerant level checks, and condenser/evaporator coil cleaning. Deferred maintenance leads to breakdowns and rejected loads.

Temperature excursions — meaning the cargo temperature went outside the acceptable range at some point during transit. This is usually caused by a malfunctioning unit, a damaged door seal, an incorrect mode setting (start/stop vs continuous), or a driver who did not monitor the temperature display during transit. Check your reefer readout at every fuel stop.